WonderMoms strives to bring content to you that is
both helpful and insightful. We are often presented with great opportunities, one of those opportunities is auto reviews.
For the past couple of years we have been fortunate enough to be able to bring you reviews on the latest and greatest that
the automotive field has to offer. Now, as much as I would like to test drive a Ferrari for a week and report back on its
awesomeness, it is not a practical mode of transportation for a mom and her kids. We would rather assist you with decisions
that can perhaps influence the right choice of car, van or truck for your family.
Over the past several years, the automotive industry as a whole seems to have gone through an evolutionary
change whereby fuel economy and technological advances have simply exploded. New technologies such as Hybrids and Electrics
are all the rage right now. They offer the customer an incentive based on the efficacy of your driving characteristics.
Drive like a jack rabbit and you will pay a substantial price on fuel economy. Conversely, if you drive with a lighter foot
and brake with efficiency, you will be waving at the gas stations as you pass the by.
Our latest review is the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse 2LT AWD. Although it is not a hybrid,
we found it very reasonable on fuel considering the size of the truck and the fact that it was a 4x4.
Having done several other reviews on SUV's similar to the
Traverse, I was interested to see what differences, refinements and options that set them apart from the competitors.
Our test vehicle was equipped with a very convenient 3rd row
of seating for the larger family outings. With 4 children of my own, we all fit in with lots of additional space for comfort.
As you can imagine, the kiddies were thrilled to see the on-board entertainment system, complete with LCD screen, Bose Surround
Sound speakers, remote control and even headphones. Its amazing how sometimes you can't get the kids to do anything with
you, simply add in a DVD player and you can't get them out of the car.
The Traverse was loaded from front to back, including a 281 HP V6, 6-speed automatic engine producing
an average of about 26 mpg as we witnessed during our review period. I was pleasantly surprised with the performance of such
a large vehicle. Safety is in abundance in this vehicle, airbags are everywhere including a head curtain for side impact.
Stability control with enhanced rollover protection. Rear vision camera system made backing up a breeze. General Motors
coveted On-Star emergency and navigation assist system is included free for 6 months. Connectivity is a snap too with Bluetooth
for phone hook-up. Stereo controls and cruise control are steering wheel located to aid in heads up driving.
The all too convenient power lift-gate is always one of
my favourites. Loading groceries is a snap when your vehicle is equipped with this option. Simply double click the
remote and up it goes.
The evening drive to and
from the cottage will be somewhat more bearable when the kids can look to the skies above through the "Skyscraper"
moonroof system. The tilt and slide front section is huge.
Warranty coverage is for 3 years/60000km bumper to bumper, 5 year/160000km powertrain component, and 5 year/160000km
roadside assistance with courtesy transportation.
All
in all, we liked this test vehicle very much, and the fact that it is made in North America is just icing on the cake. I
found it a pleasure to drive and got an enthusiastic thumbs up from my 4 kids, which in and of itself is a magical moment,
as most parents know getting the kids to agree on anything is virtually impossible.
So, if you are in the market for a new family mode of transportation, consider the 2013
Chevrolet Traverse, you won't be disappointed.
With
the summer holidays just around the corner, please remember to play safe no matter what your plans.
